The Ovitz Show: Ex-Agent
Scores Big for Fall Lineup

By

Joe Flint Staff Reporter of The Wall Street Journal

Updated July 17, 2000 12:20 a.m. ET

To jump start his new TV-production business, Michael Ovitz took the fast lane, spending a small fortune to lure top creative and executive talent and produce a flurry of pilots for the coming fall season. The bet: His new company would land at least two series on the networks from its total of 12 pilots.

Turns out his estimate was way off: Mr. Ovitz's Artists Television Group instead landed shows on all six major networks. Barely one year after opening its doors, ATG will have more new programs on the air this fall than...